We are so ready for summer! Do you have plans for the summer? If you are like us, by the end of summer, we always remember things that we wish we had done as a family, but suddenly school is about to start and we don't have time!
So we created a list a list to print off, hang on the fridge / tape to your bathroom mirror, of a bunch of fun things to do this summer. Don't feel like you have to do them all, just keep it as way to help your foggy mom-brain with some ideas :)
(And don't be afraid to add your own ideas to this list too! In fact, we want to hear what other fun things other families could add to their list too!)
(right click and save image to print) Enjoy!
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Recently, Shipt started grocery delivery at the Holland Meijer stores. And I have heard a lot of moms declaring their excitment or asking about it.
I, personally, started having Shipt deliver to my husband's office a few months ago (knowing that they would be coming to Holland this year) so in case you are wondering if Shipt is for you, I thought I would share my thoughts on it as a mom :)
It definitely is convenient. I build up my grocery list as I think of them, right on the app from my phone. I have been able to get a variety of products. From body wash to dog food to apples to ground beef. Sometimes, I have not been able to find the exact item I know that they have in the store, so there is an option to add a special request (at which point I just go to meijer's website, find the product, and just copy/paste). I havent really tried to buy toys or seasonal items, for example, but that may be something you could try to add in the special request box.
You get to choose if you want the shopper to contact you for substitutions, use their best judgement, or just not substitue if something is unavailable. Just make sure you will be available for texts the hour before your delivery if you want them to contact you about substitutions.
You can add notes for products. I was a little concerned I would get bruised/moldy strawberries, etc. but I usually always note on certain items to "only purchase if fresh" or something to that nature. For me, so far my fruit, etc has come in good shape.
If you have a hard time searching for a particular item, I have found that if you get either more/less specific, you might be able to find it easier. For example, use the name brand in the search if the exact item you want is not showing up/the results are too many.
You get to choose an hour window for delivery, but I feel like most of our deliverys have been on the earlier end, and the shopper usually lets you know when they are on their way. Something important to note is that a tip is somewhat expected. After delivery, you are sent a receipt and given the option to rate your delivery person and add a tip.
Some of the pros:
- You can grocery shop any time! Like in your pajamas while you drink wine!
- No impulse buys. (when I go grocery shopping, especially with my kids, sometimes our bill is double what we really needed to get that day)
- Easier to budget. You get to see the total of your groceries as you add items to your cart. So if you want to stick to a certain amount, you have the convenience of removing items you may not really need.
- Delivery, delivery, delivery. You don't have to wrangle kids in and out of the car and around the store. And, if availbable, can get delivery within up to an hour.
But some of the cons:
- You can not use Mperks.
- Shipt also charges a percentage higher per product (sometimes 15%) I have noticed some items were the same price, some were a little bit higher. They do have "sales" and if you are really careful and not picky, I think you get your cart close to regular store price.
- You can't shop the sales. I am pretty sure sales like "10 for 10" sales at Meijer don't apply when shopping Shipt, since Shipt prices are their own, but I can't say that with 100% certainty.
- No booze. Sorry winos, but no alcohol delvivery.
Overall, I feel like it is a great service. The only reasons it may not be a good fit for you are if you like to pick out your own produce/etc or if you like to get the absolute best deals. The convenience is great for your general grocery shopping. I do find that I do stop in the store myself on occasion if I want to take the time to look at options in person myself, or are driving by the store without kids and all I need is coffee creamer.
They also offer gift memberships! So just another option for a gift for a mom you may know!
Right now, they are offering two weeks free and $15 off your first grocery order. So you can head over to shipt.com if you want to sign up and veryify that Shipt delivers to your zip code.
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Did you know a new cafe, specifically for young families, opened in Holland this week?!
We went to check it out today, and our girls had a blast (because anytime you get to play with someone else's toys, is the best.day.ever)
The Square Play Cafe is located in the Washington Square, on the southside of Holland.
And it was so cute!
An important thing to note is that it is $3/child to stay and play (but free for 12 months and under)
There are some great quality toys, and while I was there, the workers were picking up to organize as often as they could. There was a room in the back that they would put strollers in for you.
The coffee I had was great! The beverage and snack choices aren't huge (when I was there: a couple cookies and muffins or applesauce/cheese sticks/yogurt) , but it covers the basics- just don't expect to get lunch.
The prices were also very reasonable. We played and got snacks+drinks for all three of us for under $15.
The only downfall I personally had was that there weren't very many tables for adults to sit at, and half of them aren't in easy view of the play area. But it really wasn't a big deal as enjoying a cup of coffee while your kids are happily playing : priceless.
One of our girls favorite part was this bouncy tube (because I have no idea what else to call this, ha!)
And they didn't forget about the littles! There is a small baby area as well.
Even though it was busy when we were first there, there were plenty of toys and activities for the kids (most people cleared out once it got close to lunch time, and I have a feeling the afternoon would be a little slower). It was a great atmosphere, and the staff was very friendly. We will definitely be returning!
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We have TWO Michigan Awesome bundles to giveaway!
One to the general public and one only to Moms in Tow members!
Each Prize Includes:
-One Michigan Awesome Mug
-One Michigan Awesome gift box (granola, dried cherries, blueberry preserves, and butter toffee peanut butter)
- TWO kid sherpa shirts (S,M,L,XL)
Click the link below to enter! :)
Michigan Awesome Bundle Giveaways
(but remember, you MUST have an active Moms in Tow membership to also qualify for the additional drawing)
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It's May! That means that the tulips have arrived and Tulip Time is almost here!
Here is a list of some of the fun family-friendly activities to make sure to check out. (As much as we love it, you may want to save a visit to Nelis Dutch Village until after Tulip Time this summer to avoid the crowds!)
Friday, May 5 - Sunday, May 14 : Carnival - Located at the Civic Center, rides and fun for all ages
Saturday, May 6 - Sunday, May 14 (11-4) : Family Rest Area - A FREE place for families to relax downtown during Tulip Time! In the pocket park on 8th Street : free activities and snacks. Changing tables, nursing area, family restrooms and handwashing stations are also available.
Saturday, May 6 (8am) : Tulip Time Run - Starting at Kollen Park, participate in the 5k/10k and the Kids 1k Fun Run!
Saturday, May 6 (2pm) : Vintage Baseball Game - Take in this wonderful (FREE) vintage game of baseball, at Riverview Park in Holland.
Saturday, May 6 - Sunday, May 7 (11-5) : Kinderplaats - Kinderplaats is a FREE event where children and their families can learn and play together, while becoming immersed in Dutch culture, history and heritage through activities, games and crafts.
Wednesday, May 10 (2pm) : Volksparade + Streetscrubbing - Experience bands, floats, and Dutch Dance groups as they “Klomp” along the route. Street scrubbing starts a 1:15pm.
Thursday, May 11 (2pm) : Kinderparade - Featuring over 7,000 school children dressed in Dutch costumes.
Thursday, May 11 (3:30-6:30pm) : Street Performers - Enjoy the fun and excitement of street performers as you stroll down 8th St. after the parade
Saturday, May 14 (2pm) : Muziekparade - Concluding the Festival’s parade series is one of Michigan’s most spectacular parades featuring floats, Dutch Dancers, marching bands and more!
Saturday, May 14 : Fireworks - Celebrate the end of Tulip Time with a bang, at Kollen Park!
also check out the full schedule for:
Dutch Dance (and Kinder) Performances
If you are looking for tulip beds for pictures, check out "The Tulip" for some recommended options!
Also, make sure to check out some fun family-friendly crafts for Tulip Time!
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We recently visited The Forever Curious Children's Museum in Fennville, and had a great time. (And Moms in Tow members get buy one get one free entry, so we love having a budget friendly activity!)
Most of the activities are all in one room, and there is SO much to do. And as a mom of two kids, it was nice to have so many activities in one room so it was easier to keep track of both kids!
We also loved seeing that there were healthy snacks and drinks to purchase! (as well as a few sweet treats)
There is a room in the back, next to the restroom, where you can bring in lunch to eat while you are there!
We easily enjoyed quite a bit of time there. The museum does say that the ideal age is for children age 1-10.
While also has some fun regular activities: "Moms & Tots" occurs every Thursday morning from 10-12, with coffee available for purchase. Special Saturday events include regular boxcar movies (where the kids make cars out of boxes and then watch a movie with popcorn) and other holiday/special activities.
Summer Hours (April - August)
Tuesday - Saturday: 10am to 5pm *The first Friday of each month, the museum is open until 8pm.
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(click on the title of each event to learn more info!)
Saturday, April 8 at 10 AM - 12 PM
Personalize a bag to carry, egg hunt with live chicks and bunnies, face painting.
Bethany Christian Services
630 State St, Holland
Saturday, April 8, 2017 from 11AM- 12PM
After a short hike led by a naturalist there will be a candy egg hunt. $4/child
Outdoor Discovery Center
4214 56th St, Holland
Saturday, April 8 at 1 PM - 2 PM
Christ Our Savior Holland MI
3151 120th Ave, Holland
Saturday, April 8 from 1 PM - 3 PM
$5 : To dye your eggs and they clean up the mess!
Forever Curious Children's Museum
202 E Main St, Fennville
Visit the Easter Bunny
Saturday, April 08 & April 15 from 11am-1pm
Tip Toes
60 E 8th Street, Holland
Bunny Hop
Saturday, April 15 from 10AM - 12PM / 1PM-3PM
Children can take their time hunting for Easter eggs, playing outdoor games, and interacting with the Easter Bunny. Family-friendly tours of the Cappon House will also be available. Each child aged 12 and under will receive a goody bag of treats!
The Cappon House
31 E 10th Street, Holland
Saturday, April 15 from 9AM- 12PM
Easter Egg Hunt is filled with fun children's activities, including Critter Barn farm animals, a bounce house, face painting, balloon animals, Easter crafts and more! Activities begin at 9am. Egg hunt begins at 10am.
Beechwood Church
895 Ottawa Beach Rd., Holland
Saturday, April 15 from 10AM - 12PM
for ages 1-12
Howard B Dunton Park
290 Howard Ave Holland
Saturday, April 15 from 11AM - 12:15PM
For ages 3- 5th grade. Easter story, a bit of yummy food, and an outdoor egg hunt.
Fellowship Reformed Church
2165 W. Lakewood Blvd., Holland
Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 15 from 11 AM - 12:30 PM
for children ages 2 - 5th grade
Holland First Assembly of God
1331 E 16th St, Holland
Saturday, April 15 from 1PM-3PM
Critter Barn petting area starting at 12:00 p.m.
Open Swim starts at noon, then from 1-4 p.m. you can purchase food, play games, and win awesome prizes!
We will have two rounds of egg hunts at 1:00 & 3:00 p.m.
Holland Aquatic Center
550 Maple Ave, Holland, Michigan 49423
And if you are looking for activities to do at home, check out our Easter page on Pinterest full of kid friendly ideas!
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If you have a frog lover (or nature lover), you have to get to Hemlock Crossings!
Located just north of Holland, today we visited the "wetland" area where we were able to see dozens of frogs right from the boardwalk.
It is a paved trail and a short walk from the parking lot and visitor center, so easy access if you have strollers. The frogs should be around for a litle bit, but I was advised that on cooler days they are not quite as active.
Check out how loud there were on the video on our Instagram / page!
Another reason we love visiting Hemlock crossings is the trails, with the bridge always being a kid favorite.
Although, once past the bridge, and most of the other trails are not so stroller friendly.
The other bonus of Hemlock Crossings is the visitor center. There is a room where you can view and listen to birds and squirrels (although the feeders are down until August: although they had a great book on the table there that lets you listen to tons of birds!),
but in that room there are some great interactive and educational displays for kids.
There is also a space near the gift shop where kids can hide out in a tent and there are lots of great books to read.
The Hemlock Crossings is always on our rotation of free and fun things to do with the kids, as you can really go there during any kind of weather.
Learn more at their website, and make sure to note the hours for the visitor center :
Tuesday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Hemlock Crossings Address: 8115 West Olive Road . West Olive, MI 49460
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The free Playland opened at Central Wesleyan Church this past Friday, and we were so excited to go check it out!
(Their winter hours: Monday 9-5, Tue & Wed 11-5, Thurs 9-11am, Fri 11-8, Sat 11-4, Closed Sunday)
Their website (hollandplayland.org) said to enter at door "D"
and then we just followed the signs, up the stairs, to the entrance.
If you haven't been there before, someone will take your names and your phone number. Then, and each time after that, you will enter your phone number on the touch screens to sign in. Wristbands print off for the kids to wear, and there is a name tag for the adult. When you leave, you throw your wristbands and name tag in a bucket so they know to sign you out.
The main structure is pretty large! Our girls are 3 and 4, and get a little intimidated by the big kids (especially if there are bigger boys who tend to be a little more "intense", ha!) and they aren't huge climbers, so they were a little too nervous to spend more than 10 seconds on the main structure. But a sign on the larger play structure said it was "designed for children 2 thru 12 years". And while I saw a couple toddlers on the main play structure as well, most of the kids were at least 3-5, with kids looking even around 10 who were really enjoying it. I think it just depends on your kids! Most of the main structure seemed large enough, that if I had had the chance, I am sure I would have even enjoyed it! :)
On one side of the main play structure are a few picnic tables : our picture is looking at them from just outside because I didn't want to freak out the parents sitting there by taking their picture :) ,
and the other side has a smaller play structure.
There is also one "family restroom" located near the smaller play structure.
Even though apparantly the small structure is for 6-months to 2 years old, my opinion would be that it would be tough for most kids under two to really enjoy it, unless they are good climbers. It isn't really geared torwards infants to enjoy for too long. Again though, that can depend on your kids and how big/adventurous they are :)
Just outside of Playland is a small coffee shop with a few basic food and beverage selections.
Overall, our girls seemed to enjoy it! We will definitely be making more trips here.
If you are looking for another indoor play area in Holland, don't forget that there is "The Park" at Engedi Church, and "The Jungle" at Christ Memorial Church that are also both free. Our overall favorite (and place we can easily spend the most time for the age our girls are) is still Meg's Playhouse! (and don't forget, MiT members get $1 off each child at Meg's Playhouse!)
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We are so excited to add Tripelroot as a discount partner!
Moms in Tow members can now enjoy $2 off any food purchase!
They are super kid friendly : our girls love to play the games/ coloring books/ and other kids stuff they have. And we love the outside Biergarten in the summer. Defintely one of our favorite spots in town. Learn more about them at momsintow.com/discounts/tripelroot .
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